November 14, 2008

Leah Bahr hired to assist with fundraising efforts

by Emily Britton

Leah Bahr 

CARBONDALE, Ill. -- Leah Bahr, a two-degree Southern Illinois University Carbondale graduate, recently accepted the position of annual fund director for Student Affairs at the University.

Bahr will be responsible for securing support for the numerous departments within the division, including student development, housing, career services and the Student Center.

“We are pleased to welcome Leah Bahr to the Division of Student Affairs. Her professional experience and educational background will benefit the department immensely,” Larry Dietz, vice chancellor for student affairs, said. “Leah’s connection to the University and the local community will strengthen the bond between Southern’s students and the city of Carbondale.”

Bahr, a Carbondale native, holds a bachelor’s degree in speech communication and a master’s degree in workforce education and development.

“I was born and raised in Carbondale, in addition to being a graduate of SIU,” Bahr said. “I am very involved with the community and the SIU campus.”

Before accepting the position at Southern, Bahr served as the marketing director at 710 Bookstore for four years. She was formerly employed as the marketing director of Habiger and Associates and as business development coordinator for the St. Louis Postal Credit Union.

As an active member of the Carbondale community, Bahr also devotes her time to numerous Carbondale Main Street committees, the Alzheimer’s Association and the Inspiring Women Board of Directors.

“Leah will bring knowledge of marketing and public relations to the position, which will help her promote the University and cultivate support for our students,” Jeff Lorber, associate vice chancellor for institutional advancement, said. “Her commitment to community service and connection to Carbondale will advance our fundraising efforts.”